The Queen’s Reading Room podcast is a place for book lovers - and those who wish they loved literature a little more - to be inspired by the bookish confessions of global literary heroes. Authors from all over the world have shared their own literary treasures with us; revealing their favourite writers, most treasured books and earliest reading memories. Who does Sir Ian Rankin read when he is low? Where does David Baddiel stash his fiction and which masterpiece has Ann Patchett given up on ...
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Series sermonum in quibus de lingua Latina, de litteris Latinis, de rebus denique Latinis Latine disserimus. A Patricio Owens et Thoma Keeline edita.
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Celebrating the best of Scottish film and TV shows. Each episode we will take a look at some bizarre and funny news stories from Scotland and review one of our favourite Scottish films and TV shows. So join us for a Swally, on The Culture Swally!
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How to generate leads and market your financial services business. Alex Curtis from The Lead Engine interviews industry experts and marketing professionals to discuss how you can get more leads that create more business.
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Four true stories of pioneering investigations in the field of pathology, dramatised by Michael Butt from `The Ghost Disease and Other Stories' by Michael Howell and Peter Ford. �Now, if you like nothing more than sitting down to your lunch and thinking about death and diseases, then you�re in luck. This week there�s the chance to hear The Medical Detectives - it�s one of those programme titles that really does what it says on the tin. It�s a series of dramas based on real cases: there�s a C ...
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UK-based journalist and broadcaster Nick Brownlee has been reviewing TV since there were only three channels. Now, with literally hundreds to choose from, Nick casts his expert eye over the shows you must see - and the ones you should miss. To watch Nick Brownlee on the Telly on You Tube, just click https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xr7YfsGrhSs9UjJGqh_1A
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Ambious Records is the creation of like minded Producer & DJs. It’s a place to call home and a platform for our music and experiments. We are on the look out to recruit individuals to join our movement, to share what we believe in to the beautiful souls on our planet. Ambious is a brand that will grow purely because it stems from love, a love for good music, a love for good times, and a love for good people. Demo Submissions: demos@ambiousrecords.co.za (Please only submit private Soundcloud ...
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Welcome to Season three, episode four of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast. This week, we are joined by author of the brilliant Jackson Brodie series as well as the critically acclaimed Life After Life - it's Kate Atkinson! Which novels which have inspired Kate throughout her life and career - and which books have stayed with her? If you've ever won…
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Google Ads Campaigns (Part 1) - Performance Max, Display & Video Ads
22:25
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The first of a two-part episode, Alex Curtis is back on the Advisers Assemble podcast to focus on three out of six different types of Google Ads campaigns. He shares what Google says about them, how they work and his experience using them. Part 1 breakdown: 1. Performance Max Campaigns 2. Google Display Campaigns 3. Video Campaigns Brought to you f…
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Episode 108 - Two Doors Down (Series One) (2016)
2:05:49
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We’re catching up with the residents of Latimer Crescent on this week’s episode as we look at the first series of the classic sitcom Two Doors Down. Starring; Alex Norton, Arabella Weir, Jonathan Watson, Don Mackichan and Elaine C Smith, the show revolves around a middle class Glasgow suburb and the interactions the neighbours have with each other.…
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Dive right into Season 3, Episode 3 of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast in which we are delighted to be joined by best-selling author Malorie Blackman. Malorie is perhaps best known for Noughts & Crosses, a dystopian young adult series which has also been adapted for TV - but did you know that she is also the author of over 70 books, including nove…
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Episode 11: 'Talking Ads' with Alex, Steph and Tessa
22:09
22:09
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Alex, Steph and Tessa share the adverts that have caught their eye this month, bringing along a mixed bag of ideas. From text messages and QR codes to getting creative with Canva and copy writing, the team have got you covered! We recommend you view all the adverts before or during listening to this episode to engage in the discussion. Immerse your…
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Welcome back to season three of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast - the podcast on a mission to uncover the books that have inspired today's greatest writers. This week, join us as we step into the personal reading room of Dermot O'Leary - the much loved TV presenter and best-selling children's author of the hugely popular series 'Toto The Ninja Cat…
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Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC) - Jason Berry
30:51
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Alex is joined by Jason Berry, Group Sales Director at Crystal Specialist Finance and Co Founder of Mortgage Industry Mental Health Charter (MIMHC). Follow Jason on LinkedIn. Visit or sign up to MIMHC here. Visit Crystal Specialist Finance here. Brought to you from the team at The Lead Engine who specialise in lead generation, web design and conten…
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We’re off to the Highlands with James McAvoy, Claire Foy and Gary Lewis on this episode of The Swally as we look at the 2021 film, My Son. In the film, Edmond Murray (McAvoy) searches for answers deep in the Highlands after receiving a frantic call from his ex-wife that their seven-year-old son went missing from a campsite. In the news we ponder th…
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Welcome back to Season three of The Queen's Reading Room podcast. This week, we are joined by one of Ireland's most successful authors...Marian Keyes. The multi-million copy, internationally bestselling author of Rachel’s Holiday, Anybody Out There and Grown Ups – has millions of fans around the world. Join us as we delve into Marian's own personal…
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Episode 10: 'Talking Ads' with Alex, Hannah, Steph and Tessa
24:29
24:29
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The team are back to share the adverts that have caught their eye this month, sharing what made them stop and look and how you could create similar promotions for your website or social media pages. From 'adulting' and cleaning to furniture and music lessons, they have selected a range of cleverly thought about adverts for you to store away neatly …
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Google Ads Admin: Essential Steps for Financial Services - Alex Curtis
16:22
16:22
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Key Topics Covered: 1. Advertiser Verification: Importance of proving your identity and business legitimacy to Google. Required documents: Incorporation certificate and passport/driver’s license. Common mistakes to avoid, such as mismatches between your business name and what’s listed on the FCA register. Tips for ensuring your identification docum…
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Episode 106 - The Flying Scotsman (2006)
1:49:14
1:49:14
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We’re cramming ourselves into lycra and polishing our helmets on this episode of The Culture Swally as we look at the 2006 film, The Flying Scotsman. Directed by Douglas Mackinnon, the film is based on the life and career of Scottish amateur cyclist Graeme Obree, covering the period that saw him take, lose, and then retake the world one-hour distan…
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Google Ads For Brokers - Setting Up For Success - Alex Curtis
17:50
17:50
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Key Points Discussed: 1. **Definition of Conversions and Key Events**: - Historically, conversions were straightforward leads, typically tracked when someone filled out a form on a website. - Now, Google refers to them as events or key events, emphasizing the importance of tracking user interactions before and after a lead is registered. This inclu…
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Remarketing - Be Aware of Spam - Alex Curtis
9:41
9:41
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Alex is back on The Advisers Assemble Podcast, this time to talk about remarketing and how to avoid spam enquiries - including what this means and why you need to be aware of it if you are running remarketing adverts or planning too. Brought to you from the team at The Lead Engine who specialise in lead generation, web design and content marketing …
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Episode nine: Richard E Grant (Bonus episode)
18:56
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Welcome back to the season two of The Queen's Reading Room podcast. This week, we are joined by the one and only Richard E. Grant. Grant has been a much-loved actor and household name ever since his breakout role as Withnail in the 1987 cult classic Withnail and I. His performances across the decades have garnered international recognition and have…
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The end of the world as we know it? Nah, lets have a dance to the Fine Young Cannibals as we look at the 2008 film, from director Neil Marshall, Doomsday. When a lethal virus spreads throughout Scotland, infecting millions and killing hundreds of thousands. To contain the threat, acting authorities brutally quarantine the country as it succumbs to …
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Episode 9: 'Talking Ads' with Alex and Tessa
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Alex and Tessa host this month's episode of Talking Ads with an array of adverts to share from food and drink to cars and dustbins. But, you'll find no rubbish here, just lots of useful ways to spruce up your website and social media! We recommend you view all the adverts before or during listening to this episode to engage in the discussion. Immer…
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From Lead to Application: Mastering High Conversion Rates - Rebus FS share their process
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47:35
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In a world where influencers and bloggers often tout quick fixes and shortcuts, it's refreshing to hear a different perspective. Join us as we sit down with Lee & Neezam, two successful professionals who believe in investing more time with their clients to achieve outstanding results. They share their process from the moment a lead drops in their i…
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Episode 104 - The Field of Blood (Series Two) (2013)
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1:22:00
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Back in May 2023 on episode 74 we looked at the first series of the adaptation of the Denise Mina novel The Field of Blood. So I thought it was time to look at the second and final series of the show. Released in 2013, series two is set in 1984, two years after the events of the first series. Set against a backdrop of the miners’ strike and the cha…
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The Lead Ladies - Room 101 - Funmi Olufunwa Returns!
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34:20
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Founder of Hoops Finance, Media Finance Expert and Financial Educator, Funmi Olufunwa joins The Lead Ladies on Room 101 after nearly a year on to share parental updates and more! Will Funmi stick to her previous pet peeves and keep them locked away or has she found a new perspective on school life? Follow Funmi on LinkedIn. Brought to you from the …
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Welcome to season 2, episode eight of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast. This week, we meet the illustrious Curtis Sittenfeld, author of seven New York Times best-selling novels which includes the critically acclaimed 'Prep', 'Man of My Dreams' and 'Romantic Comedy' as well as several collections of short stories. In this brilliant episode, Curtis i…
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The Lead Ladies - Room 101 With Rhys Schofield
38:21
38:21
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It's only the Former Metallica of Mortgages and Slayer of Meerkats! Yes, Rhys Schofield joins The Lead Ladies on Room 101 to reveal is pet peeves and he isn't holding back! This one is hardcore... Plus, Rhys shares his passion for Warhammer and Wrestling...very rock 'n' roll! Please note: Companies named in this podcast by Rhys Schofield represent …
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Welcome to episode seven, Season 2 of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast. This week, we meet police officer turned best-selling author Clare Mackintosh, whose debut novel I Let You Go became the fastest-selling title by a new UK crime writer in 2015. In this deeply personal episode, Clare reveals the book which helped her find solace after the passin…
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Episode 103 - Tommy's Honour (2016)
1:35:46
1:35:46
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We’re dusting off our plus fours on this episode of The Swally as we play a round of golf with Peter Mullan and Jack Louden in the 2016 film Tommy’s Honour. Directed by Wee Tam, Jason Connery, the film follows the career of Tom Morris and his son Tommy Morris (we still think The Two Tommies would be a better title) in an intimate, powerfully moving…
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Episode 8: 'Talking Ads' with Alex, Hannah, Steph and Tessa
23:08
23:08
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The team are back this month with another eclectic mix of adverts to help get the creative juices flowing. From Smoothies and Satan to babies and dogs, it's another tail-wagging episode! We recommend you view all four adverts before or during listening to this episode to engage in the discussion. Immerse yourselves here. Brought to you from the tea…
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Welcome to episode six, Season 2 of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast. This week's episode features the illustrious novelist Santa Montefiore, who has captured hearts and minds globally since publishing her debut novel Meet Me Under the Ombu Tree back in 2001. In this special episode, Santa invites The Queen's Reading Room inside her very own person…
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Martin Lightbowne, Managing Director and Business Protection Specialist of OnPoint Financial joins Alex on the podcast once again, this time to chat about his monthly protection masterclasses and more! Visit OnPoint Financial here. Follow Martin on LinkedIn. Sign up / find out more about the protection sales skills masterclasses here.…
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Welcome to episode five, Season 2 of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast. This week's episode features none other than poet, novelist, short story writer, playwright and essayist, the brilliant Sir Ben Okri - fresh off his appearance at The Queen's Reading Room Festival which took place on June 8th at Hampton Court Palace. What, and who inspires Sir B…
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Episode 102 - Rebus - Black & Blue (2000)
1:59:44
1:59:44
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With the BBC recently releasing a new series, based on the character DI John Rebus, created by prolific Scottish author, Sir Ian Rankin, I thought we would go all the way back to 2000, to look at the first attempt to transfer the character to television and look at the first ever Rebus episode called Black and Blue. DI Rebus, played by John Hannah …
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Alex is back for another solo episode this time to highlight the importance of why specific content is king. Brought to you from the team at The Lead Engine who specialise in lead generation, web design and content marketing for financial services.By Alex Curtis
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A very warm welcome to this week's episode of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast! This week, we catch up with friend of The Queen's Reading Room, best selling author & creator of the Roy Grace series, the brilliant Peter James. In this very special episode, Peter invites us into his own personal reading room where he recalls the literature which has …
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Episode 7: 'Talking Ads' with Alex, Hannah, Steph and Tessa
22:55
22:55
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In this episode, Steph makes her sparkling debut on the show and takes the trophy for the winning advert! From skincare to cars, tarantulas and more, the team hopes to inspire you with more ideas for your websites and social media platforms. We recommend you view all four adverts before or during listening to this episode to engage in the discussio…
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A very warm welcome back to The Queen's Reading Room Podcast! In this episode, we meet the brilliant Kate Moss, celebrated historical novelist, founder of the Women's Prize and friend of The Queen's Reading Room, to hear all about the books she simply couldn't live without. The Queen's Reading Room Podcast is a place for book lovers - and those who…
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Episode 101 - Gregory's Two Girls (1999)
1:53:05
1:53:05
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We’re going back to 1999 on the latest episode of The Swally, as we look at the slightly problematic sequel to the beloved Gregory’s Girl - Gregory’s Two Girls. Eighteen years later, Gregory, now a 35-year-old English teacher in his former secondary school, has fantasies about a 16-year-old student. He then gets involved with students in a plot to …
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What are your buying habits like? How much research do you do before buying that shiny new car, fancy BBQ or booking a well-deserved holiday? And, what does all this have in common with generating leads to your website? In this episode, Alex shares the three key things you need to do to drive people looking for financial advice to your website. Bro…
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A very warm welcome back to episode 2, season 2 of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast! In this episode, we meet much loved actor, comedian, television presenter and author Mel Giedroyc. Join us, as we step into Mel's very own reading room to learn all about the books which have inspired her throughout her career. The Queen's Reading Room Podcast is a…
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There have been 20 Rebii since crime writer Ian Rankin published his first Detective Rebus book in 1987 -- but only two TV versions. Now Richard Rankin, no relation, aims to make it third time lucky in a new BBC version. Meanwhile Nicole Kidman goes mad in her search for a missing son in Expats. But is it all Hong Kong Phooey? And Bodkin sees podca…
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A hunchback lawyer attempts to win a game of monastic Cluedo in Shardlake, the long-awaited TV version of CS Sansom's bestselling historical novels, while very much in the modern world Jeff Daniels steals the show as a larger-than-life property developer in A Man In Full. And we also take a look at Martin Freeman as the ultra-downbeat but hugely ac…
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Mutants and superfreaks abound in post-apocalypse Hollywood as Fallout becomes the latest best-selling video game to get the multi-million dollar TV treatment by the makers of Westworld. But does the rest of the show match a stand-out performance by Walton Goggins as a 200-year-old bounty hunter with no nose? Meanwhile Tom Hollander is the ugly duc…
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Journalist and broadcaster Nick Brownlee casts his eye over the latest TV showsBy Pete Crouch
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Understanding the value of a click Is it worth trying to get free clicks from Google? Alex would heavily argue yes, as some brokers pay a lot per click to get people from Google to their website. No matter how deep their pockets, how big their budget nobody spends money on ads without a return, especially brokers. In this episode, Alex looks at the…
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A very warm welcome back to season 2 of The Queen's Reading Room Podcast! In this episode, we meet Neil Gaiman: author of fiction and non-fiction, comic books, films, television, poetry and songs. Over the course of his career his stories, full of bewitching characters and endlessly riveting twists and turns, have reached audiences of all ages, tur…
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Episode 100 - Gregory's Girl - The ReSwally (1981)
2:03:35
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It’s our 100th episode! To celebrate we are returning to one of our favourite films of all time, Gregory’s Girl. We previously covered this film in episode two of the podcast, but thought it was the perfect opportunity to have a ReSwally and visit it once again. Directed by Bill Forsyth and starring John Gordon Sinclair, Dee Hepburn and Claire Grog…
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Two Changes That Slashed Mortgage Lead Cost by Over 50%
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Alex is back with another solo episode, this time to highlight the importance of human interaction and the part this plays in website performance.By Alex Curtis
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Our 'What Network Should I Join?' Series continues with Lesley Sharkey, Recruitment Director at Stonebridge - a Mortgage and Insurance Network. Visit Stonebridge here. Follow Lesley on LinkedIn.By Lesley Sharkey, Alex Curtis
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Episode 99 - The Party's Just Beginning (2018)
1:45:03
1:45:03
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The Party's Just Beginning follows a young woman, Liusaidh, from Inverness, who is dealing with the suicide of her best friend. Liusaidh tries to cope by binging on alcohol, sex and late-night junk food, while visions of her friend’s dying image plague her waking life. Released in 2018, this is Karen Gillan's debut feature as writer and director an…
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Episode 6: 'Talking Ads' with Alex, Cathy, Hannah, and Tessa
21:04
21:04
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This month's episode of Talking Ads is barking mad! From an airline for dogs to canine cuisine, it's no secret that animals win over our hearts every time. We recommend you view all four adverts before or during listening to this episode to engage in the discussion. Immerse yourselves here. Brought to you from the team at The Lead Engine who specia…
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JLM Mortgage Network - Sebastian Murphy and Rory Joseph
44:31
44:31
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Alex is joined by this week's guests, Rory and Seb, the Founders of JLM: A "boutique" mortgage network designed for "successful and aspiring firms and sole traders." Visit JLM Mortgage Network here. Follow Rory on LinkedIn. Follow Seb on LinkedIn. Brought to you from the team at The Lead Engine who specialise in lead generation, web design and cont…
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Episode 98 - Unleashed / Danny The Dog (2005)
1:59:33
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We are Unleashed on The Swally this week as we look at the 2005 film of the same name, also called Danny The Dog in certain countries. Starring Jet Li, Morgan Freeman and Bob Hoskins (yes, really) the films tells the tale of a man enslaved by the mob since childhood and raised into behaving like a human attack dog who escapes his captors and attemp…
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Free Marketing Tools For Brokers - Alex Curtis
15:22
15:22
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This week, Alex shares some of the free marketing tools he uses to help with content ideas, content creation and website performance and explain how they work. The main four include: 1. Descript 2. Google 3. Google Search Console 4. Google Ads Other tools mentioned: Semrush Canva Shutterstock Brought to you from the team at The Lead Engine who spec…
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